Uncensored Humanity

https://feed.podbean.com/uncensoredhumanity/feed.xml

Long form podcast with unedited conversations ranging from educational to controversial and perhaps even taboo at times.

Episodes

Monday Nov 13, 2023

UH 107 - Ethan Frontz, Dennis Heil Ohio Abortion & Recreational Marijuana Now Legal

Monday Nov 13, 2023

It's been a while since we've uploaded an episode. I've been lazy and haven't made time to record episodes. After the November Elections here in Ohio in 2023 I was excited about the results of the election. Issue 1 was to remove the ban on abortion here in Ohio. Issue 2 was to legalize recreational marijuana. Both issues passed and I was definitely shocked that both issues passed.

We of course got off into the weeds as we typically do. We discussed everything from our current entitled society, relationships, bullying all kinds of good things. Hopefully you enjoy the episode as much as we did.

If you want to contact the show you can go to https://www.uncensoredhumanity.com/ and fill out the Contact Us form. Or email us at uncensoredhumanitypodcast@gmail.com. Feel free to ask a question to any of our regular guests, let us know if you have a topic you want us to cover or just let us know what you think of the episode. We look forward to hearing from you.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Mar 20, 2023

UH 106 - Andrew Hoffman, Jake Bible American Honesty 18

Monday Mar 20, 2023

Welcome to a special segment of the Uncensored Humanity Podcast we like to call American Honesty. During these shows I will have two co-hosts; Andrew Hoffman and Jake Bible. On the American Honesty segment we like to discuss topics that society has deemed inappropriate. Our goal is to just get our opinions out in the open for a discussion. We believe that the ability to talk about these tough topics is seriously lacking in today's society, as people seem to get offended too easily.

It's been a while since we've recorded an episode of American Honesty as we all got burnt out with politics recently. The three of us got together for dinner and drinks a few weeks ago, as we hadn't seen each other much. We decided to record an episode as long as we didn't talk about politics. So what did we talk about today?? Of course, politics. We started off the show talking about politics and the upcoming presidential election. But then we switched gears and started talking about self discipline and making out lives better. We are all on our own journeys of making our lives better and there was definitely lots to talk about there.

American Honesty is a project that Jake started a couple of years ago. So now using the podcast as our platform we are going to carry on the project that Jake started. Hopefully it will lead to some good conversations that others can enjoy as much as we do.

Jake is one of our regular guests on the podcast as he loves to have these interesting discussions with anyone. Jake is very much involved in local leadership with Medina Leadership. He is one of my co-hosts for the American Honesty segments on the show. He's always wanting to bring people on the podcast so they can share their opinion about the controversial topics we all like to cover.

Andrew is one of my closet friends. I consider him a brother from another mother. Andrew is always excited to record podcasts and he is one of the funniest people I know. He always has some great issues to bring up on the show that makes for great conversation. He has helped to make the show what it is today, both on a off air. He will definitely be on the show for a long time to come.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Feb 27, 2023

UH 105 - Ryan Cohen We Defy Foundation

Monday Feb 27, 2023

Today we have with us my friend and teammate Ryan Cohen. Ryan is a Athlete Engagement Manager for the We Defy Foundation in the Midwest & Rocky Mountain Regions. The We Defy Foundation is a foundation started to help disabled combat veterans get started in Jiu Jitsu all around the United States. We Defy has given out over 600 athlete scholarships, there are over 500 affiliate gyms across 45 states. Ryan got started as an Ambassador with We Defy, he was then moved up to a Mentor position. But he was interested in doing more so they made him the Athlete Engagement Manager. That was a little too much for him to handle alone so now there are two other people helping with different regions.

Ryan went into the Marine Corp after high school. He served for four years and did two combat tours in Iraq during his time in the military. Ryan is passionate about helping other combat veterans thrive in life after the military.

He has an undergrad in business from Akron University and got his MBA while working for Akron Children's Hospital. Ryan was looking for something more as he was struggling mentally with PTSD and moved on to help his father part time in a consulting business to allow him to have more time to get involved with the We Defy Foundation.

If you would like more information about the We Defy Foundation please visit their website.

https://wedefyfoundation.org/

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Feb 27, 2023

UH 104 -We Defy Foundation New Member Guide

Monday Feb 27, 2023

This is a special episode of the podcast. Today I sat down with Ryan Cohen the Athlete Engagement Manager for the We Defy Foundation in the Midwest & Rocky Mountain Regions. The We Defy Foundation is a foundation started to help disabled combat veterans get started in Jiu Jitsu all around the United States. We Defy has given out over 600 athlete scholarships, there are over 500 affiliate gyms across 45 states.

On this episode Ryan and I list out some of the beginner's information a new member starting with the We Defy Foundation will need to know before starting Jiu Jitsu. We covered lots of good information for someone new to Jiu Jitsu from how to select a gym, how fit you need to be to start and some general etiquette to follow to be respectful to your teammates and instructors.

If you would like more information about the We Defy Foundation please visit their website.

https://wedefyfoundation.org/

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Feb 20, 2023

UH 103 - Dennis Heil Ayahuasca Is Calling To Me

Monday Feb 20, 2023

Today we have back with us my good friend Dennis Heil. I asked Dennis to join me for this very fun and interesting topic and he jumped at the idea. I have been hearing a ton of podcasts recently about psychedelics. Specifically a few about Ayahuasca stood out to me. Ayahuasca is a Shamanic Spiritual Medicine that has been used for tens of thousands of years, if not longer. Ayahuasca is mostly used by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin in South America. It is becoming more available to us here in North America as some people begin to strip away their closed mindset against plant medicines. I'm not sure if the universe is trying to tell me something or if I personally am manifesting these topics to head my way. But I'm definitely enjoying the journey so far.

Three different podcasts spoke to me about Ayauasca. Episode 105 of the Endless Endeavor podcast with Tyler Stanaway. Episode 112 of the Endless Endeavor podcast with Tyler Stanaway. Episode 34 of the Shawn Ryan Show with Cody Alford, founder of We Defy the Norm. They all deserve a listen.

Dennis is a former active duty Marine. Dennis is also a firearms instructor with Jeff and Ethan at Instruments of Freedom. He is typically at the shop and is known for talking your ear off if you let him. We always have great conversations and I immensely enjoy when we get the chance to chat for a while.

You can also visit them on Instagram @Instruments_of_Freedom or find them on Facebook at Instruments of Freedom.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Jan 30, 2023

UH 102 -Ryan Carlson Dealing with Depression

Monday Jan 30, 2023

Today we have our Tech Support Ryan Carlson back on the show. Today we are covering a heavier topic than normal when Ryan is on the show. Instead of talking about technology, like we typically do, we are going to discuss Ryan's battle with depression throughout his life. Ryan has dealt with depression most of his life. With the help of people close to him he has reached out for help and is doing much better dealing with it. A few years ago he had thoughts of suicide. Luckily for us he has worked through those thoughts and issues and is feeling much more hopeful towards his future. Ryan is hopeful that with sharing his story it may be able to help others who may be struggling with depression themselves.

Ryan is very interested in all things technology. He seems to always be up to date on all the new things coming out. He's always listening to podcasts and watching videos to find out where technology is headed. He usually has to explain it to those of us who don't understand how all these things seem to work. I'm sure it gets old for him trying to get things through my thick skull. I tend to be very old school and not up on technology. He's always giving me hell for only using 2-5% of what my phone can actually do. He is the person I go to with any technology question.

Ryan also enjoys brewing his own beer. I don't think he gets to brew as much as he'd like because of his two small children. They seem to keep him pretty busy. But I'm sure we'll end up talking about beer in a future episode.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Wednesday Jan 04, 2023

UH 101 - Josh Judy, Tyler Aitken Bourbon Taters 1

Wednesday Jan 04, 2023

Today we have a 2022 New Year's Episode with the Bourbon Taters Josh Judy and Tyler Aitken. The three of us met waiting in line for bourbon and became fast friends. We've known each other for about two years now, but it feels like we've known each other for more like a decade. I wanted to do a new years episode as an excuse to get together and drink with the boyos. I definitely needed some relative rehab after the holidays. Please enjoy our ramblings as we pour some bourbon.

Josh grew up in West Virginia in a small town. He played college baseball at Indiana Tech from 2004 to 2007. He was drafted into the MLB by the Cleveland Indians in 2007 during the 34^th round of the draft. The Indians sent him to play in the Gulf Coast League (aka Rookie Ball) for a few years to develop his skills enough to play professional baseball. Josh made his professional debut on May 25^th, 2011 against the Cincinnati Reds. Josh has played baseball all over the world including the United States and Mexico. Josh is now retired from the game of baseball after 16 years as a professional in the MLB.

Tyler grew up in Akron Ohio. Tyler enjoys cigars and bourbon. He recently got engaged to his lovely fiance Megan and they look to buy their first house in the near future. Tyler is very close with his family. In his opinion there is nothing more important than family.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Dec 19, 2022

UH 100 - Andrew Hoffman Episode 100

Monday Dec 19, 2022

Welcome to episode 100. It's been 4 years in the making and well worth the journey. For the 100^th episode I couldn't think of anyone better to join us than my brother, Mr. Andrew Hoffman. Andrew has been such a huge supporter of the show since before I decided to start this en devour. To being one of the most frequent guest and bouncing ideas off of him for the show. He is a huge part of what makes this show successful and fun for all of us.

Today we got into all kinds of topics as usual with the two of us. Andrew talked about the recent death of his mother. We talked about our own personal futures and how an event like that can shape our view on our own lives. Of course we had to talk about politics. We talked about hallucinogens as well. Those have been bombarding me lately and it's something I don't want to ignore. Perhaps the universe is trying to tell me something. This conversation went by super quick to us recording, hopefully it will feel the same way listing as well.

Andrew is a regular guest on the show and I can't tell you how excited I am to talk about controversial topics with him. These are the types of conversations I look forward to having, both on and off the podcast. Society tells us today that we aren't allowed to talk about these types of topics. But these are the kinds of conversations that need to happen in a safe environment where people can be honest with how they feel about things without fear of ridicule from others. That is what we will do our best to do on this segment of the podcast.

Andrew is one of my closet friends. I consider him a brother from another mother. Andrew is always excited to record podcasts and he is one of the funniest people I know. He always has some great issues to bring up on the show that makes for great conversation. He has helped to make the show what it is today, both on and off air. He will definitely be on the show for a long time to come.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Tuesday Nov 22, 2022

UH 099 - Dane Lee, Caitlin Bourque Living with ADD and ADHD

Tuesday Nov 22, 2022

We have back with us two of my favorite people, Dane Lee of Elite Recovery Sports Massage and Caitlin Bourque. Today's episode is all about ADD and ADHD. Both Dane and Caitlin have had to learn how to live with ADD as adults. Both of them didn't get diagnosed and start medication until they were adults. They have both learned great ways to deal with the way their brains work and had some great tips for others struggling with ADD and ADHD.

Dane talked about the different types of ADD and ADHD, which I knew nothing about previously. We certainly had a great conversation and of course went of tons of tangents during the episode.

Dane Lee is the owner of Elite Recovery Sports Massage and he is what I would call a recovery specialist. Dane is a certified Exercise Physiologist through ACSM and a licensed Massage Therapist in the state of Ohio through Stark State College. Dane has a Bachelors of Science degree from Kent State University in Exercise Science with emphasis on exercise specialist. Dane has experience in massage and experience as a strength coach and as a gymnastic coach.

You can find Dane on Facebook at Elite Recovery Sports Massage, on Instagram @Elite_Recovery_LMT and online at https://www.eliterecoverymassage.com/. Or you can email him at EliteRecoveryMassage@gmail.com.

Caitlin enjoys being outdoors, she would say that it calms her mind down. You can find her hiking, river walking, mountain biking and kayaking during her free time.

If you want to follow her online you can find her on Instagram @ThinkBig_DrawTiny.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Oct 24, 2022

UH 098 - Paul Nouri How to Start Investing in Real Estate

Monday Oct 24, 2022

Today we have my Jiu Jitsu teammate Mr. Paul Nouri with us. I asked Paul to come on the show and talk about how to get started investing in Real Estate. Paul has over 10 rentals with his family that they manage. He grew up very poor. He was raised by his mother and also lived with his grandma and uncle all in the same household. Paul grew up in southern California and moved to Ohio for college.

After going to school in the evenings Paul's mother got a government contracting job that allowed her to travel for work. She was able to buy her first home in 2005. Then in 2009 they purchased their first investment property and started renting it out. It is a true rags to riches story with Paul's mother moving to the United States as a child, working odd jobs and putting herself through college. Now they manage all their properties together as a family.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Oct 03, 2022

UH 097 - Josh Judy Cleveland Indians Pitcher - Part 2

Monday Oct 03, 2022

Today we have back with us Mr. Josh Judy. Josh was a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians in the MLB. Josh and I met under interesting circumstances and have become fast friends. This is the second time I sat down with Josh to talk about his professional baseball career. The first episode (#79) we talked about him getting drafted after college and making his debut in the major league for the Cleveland Indians. In this episode we talked about his long and amazing career as a professional pitcher. Josh pitched all over the country and in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Josh has had many setbacks and triumphs in his crazy professional career. I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through our conversation.

In the 2017-2018 season of the Dominican Winter League Josh and his team the Aguilas Cibaeñas beat their arch rivals the Licey Tigres winning the Dominican Winter League Championship. After winning the championship the Aguilas Cibaeñas had the opportunity to represent the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean World Series.

Josh grew up in West Virginia in a small town. He played college baseball at Indiana Tech from 2004 to 2007. He was drafted into the MLB by the Cleveland Indians in 2007 during the 34^th round of the draft. The Indians sent him to play in the Gulf Coast League (aka Rookie Ball) for a few years to develop his skills enough to play professional baseball. Josh made his major league debut on May 25^th, 2011 against the Cincinnati Reds. Josh has played baseball all over the world including the United States and Mexico. Josh is now retired from the game of baseball after 16 years as a professional in the MLB.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Sep 12, 2022

UH 096 - Jake Bible Political Burnout

Monday Sep 12, 2022

Today we have back with us one of our regular guests Jake Bible. It's been a while since Jake has been on the podcast and I wanted to have him on to talk about being burnt out on politics. Jake and I love to discuss politics. We tend to discuss politics when we get together on and off the show. But we both definitely needed a break for a little while. Jake seems to be focused on pursuing happiness in his life as he's eliminating the distracting things that have taken up his focus in the past, like politics did in his life. It was fun to catch up with him and in true podcast form we didn't have a shortage of things to talk about.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Aug 15, 2022

UH 095 - Damonte Robinson From Fighting to Get Into the UFC to Fighting to Walk Again

Monday Aug 15, 2022

Our guest today is my friend Damonte Robinson. Damonte used to be one of the top 155 pound MMA fighters in Ohio, and probably the country. He was undefeated as amateur and had an invitation to fight on Dana White's Contender Series after turning pro. Unfortunately he was pulled from that fight due to medical reasons. With Damonte's rising MMA career he was on track to reach his goals of being a world champion in the sport of MMA. That career came to a screeching halt in October of 2021. Damonte had an accident that left him labeled as a quadriplegic. I won't get into details here, as I'll let him do that himself on the podcast. I truly believe you will enjoy this episode of the podcast with Damonte's incredible story.

Damonte is planning to start his own podcast in the future. So be on the lookout for that. We'll definitely promote his show once it comes out.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Aug 01, 2022

UH 094 - Ethan Frontz, Jeff Wilson, Dennis Heil Ohio Constitutional Carry Problems

Monday Aug 01, 2022

We have back with us today Ethan Frontz, Jeff Wilson and Dennis Heil of Instruments of Freedom. On today's episode we wanted to cover Ohio passing Constitutional Carry for residents of the state and the problems that may possibly come with it. I certainly have my own strong opinions about the passing of this law. But I didn't want to talk about it without the boyos from Instruments of Freedom. They have so much expertise to add to the conversation as they deal with this on a day to day basis with the work that they do. We of course got off topic and talked about many other things as we always seem to do. But that for me is part of the fun of the show. Hopefully you enjoy this episode as much as we all did.

Jeff and Ethan run a company call the Instruments of Freedom Tactical Weapons Training Group IOFTWTG.COM. Head over and sign up for some training from some of the best firearms trainers in the area. You can visit their retail store at 426 E. Liberty St. Wooster, Ohio 44691. Then they are the one stop shop for everything firearms in Wayne county Ohio.

You can also visit them on Instagram @Instruments_of_Freedom or find them on Facebook at Instruments of Freedom.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Jul 11, 2022

UH 093 - Dr. Max Zart THYCHIRO & Crossfit Strongsville

Monday Jul 11, 2022

Today we have a special treat. We have back with us (after way too long of a break) one of our favorite guests Dr. Maximillian Zart from the Healthiest You Chiropractic Center and Crossfit Strongsville in Strongsville Ohio.

I wanted to get Dr. Max back on the show as there are huge things going on at the Healthiest You Chiropractic Center and Crossfit Strongsville. A few years ago Dr. Max decided to look at a different space to move into to help him expand his clinic and the gym. He bought a building to move into and started renovating it to meet their needs. The new building is 22,500 square feet with approximately 7,000 of that being space for the gym. This is a huge expansion from their previous spaces of 2,500 square feet for the clinic and 2,300 square feet for the gym. The Healthiest You Chiropractic Center is now the largest chiropractic clinic in northeast Ohio and was opened in April of 2022.

Dr. Max and his wife Chrissy have also purchased Crossfit Strongsville from the previous owners. When they moved into the new space they also merged with Strong Tower Fitness. The new space is setup very well and I'm personally excited to see where they go in the next couple of years.

Dr. Max attended Baldwin Wallace University where he graduated Suma Cum Laude with a degree in chemistry. Dr. Max furthered his studies at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida where he graduated valedictorian of his class with a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree.

You can make an appointment to see Dr. Max at his office located at 12608 Alameda Dr. Strongsville, Ohio 44149. Or call the office at 440-238-3338. Visit THYCHIRO.com to find out more about his practice. He is by far the best chiropractor I have been to. Everyone I send to him says the same thing. You won't regret it.

If you're interested in getting back into shape and are looking for a gym with a great atmosphere check out Crossfit Strongsville located at 12608 Alameda Dr. Strongsville, Ohio 44149. You can visit them online at CrossfitStrongsville.com for more information.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Jun 20, 2022

UH 092 - Preston Russ, Josh Wherley Stoicism

Monday Jun 20, 2022

Today we have Preston Russ and Josh Wherley joining us from True Art Jiu Jitsu. Today I wanted to ask the boyos about stoicism. Stoicism is something that I've been looking into recently and it has been very interesting to me personally. Both Preston and Josh have looked into stoicism so I thought it would be fun to pick their brains on the show. Neither of them are experts on the subject, but that's not the point of the show. I wanted to just talk with them and learn more about their personal experiences with stoicism. I definitely enjoyed our conversation, hopefully you will as well.

Preston started Jiu Jitsu in January of 2018 with our coach Shannon White. Preston has competed at some big IBJJF tournaments. He has competed at the IBJJF Cincinnati Open and twice at the IBJJF Chicago Open which are very big regional tournaments. I'm sure he will be competing in many more to come as he has some big goals in Jiu Jitsu.

Josh grew up in Akron Ohio. He played a bunch of different sports growing up and enjoys playing musical instruments. He is currently playing the guitar, banjo and the mandolin. Josh's religion is a very important part of his life. He practices Orthodox Christianity. He got into Jiu Jitsu from his brother who started before him and talked him into getting started.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Jun 06, 2022

UH 091 - Dane Lee Perpetual Student & Competition

Monday Jun 06, 2022

We have back with us one of our favorite guests, Dane Lee of Elite Recovery Sports Massage. Dane and I always have fun and interesting conversations. Dane and I have been talking and we want to sit down more often for podcasts. Today we talked about Dane finishing up his first year of his PHD program at Akron University. To say that it was a little overwhelming would be an understatement. At one point through the year I had to ask him if he was doing okay. Because he definitely did not look okay. He looked like he hadn't slept in over a week. We also talked about me missing competition. I miss competing and want to find something to compete in. But I also don't want it to consume my life like weightlifting did. I still want to do other activities and not just put in all my time and energy into one thing. Hopefully I can find something that will be enjoyable and fulfilling to compete in.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Tuesday May 17, 2022

UH 090 - Andrew Hoffman, Jake Bible, Dennis Heil Belly Up to the Bar 2

Tuesday May 17, 2022

This is the second episode of a special segment that we call Belly Up to the Bar. The whole idea is just to get together, have a few drinks (or more), BS and have a good time. This episode will basically be an invitation to hang with us like we would at our local bar or at one of our house's on the back patio. So pour yourself a drink and hang with us during this episode.

On today's episode we were joined by my brother Andrew Hoffman, Jake Bible and Dennis Heil. We all had a few drinks, some of us a few too many. We had some great discussions about the Twitter buy out, politics, teaching and of course tons of side tracks during our discussion. I had a blast and I personally can't wait to do another episode like this one again. Hopefully you guys enjoy it as much as we did.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Tuesday May 03, 2022

UH 089 - Preston Russ, Todd Neptune Being Afraid to Compete in Jiu Jitsu

Tuesday May 03, 2022

Today we have Preston Russ and Todd Neptune joining us from True Art Jiu Jitsu. I wanted to have Preston back on the show to talk about competing in Jiu Jitsu tournaments. We asked Todd Neptune to join us as Todd and Preston are friends and Todd has a background of competing in wrestling. I wanted to specifically talk about the fact that I'm personally afraid to compete in Jiu Jitsu. I've never competed one on one in any type of combat sport before and I find it very intimidating. I would have to assume that is a normal feeling for a first timer going into a grappling competition like Jiu Jitsu.

Todd was a college wrestler and has competed at a high level in grappling for most of his young adult life. Todd is looking to compete in Jiu Jitsu tournaments once he achieves his blue belt. The IBJJF has a rule that if you were a college level wrestler you can't compete as a white belt in Jiu Jitsu. So he will have to wait a little bit until he is allowed to compete again. Todd got involved in Jiu Jitsu because he misses competition and is looking forward to getting back out on the mat.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Tuesday Apr 12, 2022

UH 088 - Todd Gienger, Dane Lee The Energy of Our Existence

Tuesday Apr 12, 2022

Not too long ago we recorded episode 78 that we called Questioning our Existence with Andrew Hoffman, Todd Gienger and Dane Lee. It was an episode that Dane had been wanting to make about questioning everything in life as he had struggled to have that kind of conversation with his friends. I told him “I know a couple of guys that would be great for a conversation like that.” It quickly became one of our best episodes and people seemed to really enjoy that conversation. All four of us said after we finished recording that episode that we really enjoyed our conversation and that it went in a completely different direction than we all originally thought that it would.

At the end of that episode I mentioned that I wanted to talk on another episode about the energy inside of us. That's what we're here to do today. Some people might call our energy different things. A soul, our life force, the spirit, our conscience, spiritual being, etc. In my opinion it is what powers our human meat vehicle and gives us life on this plane of existence. I was very excited to talk to the guys about what they think of that energy. Unfortunately Andrew was unable to join us today. So it's just three of us. Please enjoy our babbling of things that we cannot explain.

I have known Todd for years and he is one of my closest friends. Any time I need to talk he is always there to listen and offer great advice. We have had many great talks over the years on a large range of topics. He is truly one of the most caring and compassionate people I've ever met.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Mar 21, 2022

UH 087 - Ethan Frontz My Depression

Monday Mar 21, 2022

Today I wanted to talk about my depression. I have dealt with a few different bouts of depression over the years and I wanted to share them in hopes that it will help someone else dealing with difficult times themselves. I asked my good friend Ethan Frontz to join me today on the show to help with this challenging topic.

This ended up being one of the longest, if not the longest, podcast's I've ever done. There was a lot to add in about my own dealings with depression, and we of course went down numerous rabbit holes and sidetracks like we always do.

I believe that sharing our struggles can help others who are dealing with, or have dealt with, depression in their lives. Please share this episode with anyone who may be struggling with depression so they will realize they are not alone in this journey. We all have dark times and sharing those times with friends and loved ones can help you get through them.

You can also visit them on Instagram @Instruments_of_Freedom or find them on Facebook at Instruments of Freedom.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Feb 28, 2022

UH 086 - Preston Russ Raising Daughters

Monday Feb 28, 2022

Today we have Preston Russ joining us on the podcast. Preston is my teammate at True Art Jiu Jitsu, which is where we met. Preston was interested in coming on the show to talk about raising daughters. We both have been blessed with daughters and have a bond with our shared experience. Preston's daughters are younger than my daughter, but I think most of us can relate to the struggles of raising children in general. Either by raising them ourselves, or remembering how much grief we gave our parents when we were young.

Preston grew up in southern Ohio. He went to the Ohio State University to study Poly Science and Economics. One day after getting into some trouble on campus he decided to stop into the Marine recruiters office to see what they could offer him. Preston decided to join the Marines and that started him down a whole new path in life. During college, Preston met his wife and they committed to a long distance relationship. Through lots of hard work and dedication on both of their parts they made it all work and have been married for 10 years at this point.

Preston's first duty station with the Marine Corps was in Okinawa Japan. Preston and his wife were stationed in Okinawa for three and a half years. After that he was sent back to the states for the last three years of his military career. That's when he and his wife decided it was time to move onto new adventures in the private sector.

Preston started jiu jitsu in January of 2018 with our coach Shannon White. When Shannon opened his own gym, True Art Jiu Jitsu, he went there along with everyone training under Shannon at the time. Preston has competed at some big IBJJF tournaments. He has competed at the IBJJF Cincinnati Open and twice at the IBJJF Chicago Open which are very big regional tournaments. I'm sure he will be competing in many more to come as he has some big goals in jiu jitsu.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Wednesday Jan 26, 2022

UH 085 - Ethan Frontz, Dennis Heil Imperative Take Away From The Kyle Rittenhouse Trial

Wednesday Jan 26, 2022

We have back with us today Ethan Frontz and Dennis Heil of Instruments of Freedom. On today's episode we wanted to cover an imperative take away from the Kyle Rittenhouse trial. The Kyle Rittenhouse trial was a huge topic last year in the news. I had people asking me if we were going to cover it on the podcast. But I was hesitant as I felt like I didn't have anything to add to the topic as it was covered by so many people last year. But when I was talking with Ethan about it he mentioned that they cover parts of that trial specifically in their concealed handgun license (CHL) classes. So we decided to cover that part of it on the show. We also talked a lot about the importance of firearms training even in these tough times with all the ammo shortages. Also in true uncensored humanity fashion we got off on tons of tangents.

You can also visit them on Instagram @Instruments_of_Freedom or find them on Facebook at Instruments of Freedom.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Tuesday Jan 11, 2022

UH 084 - Andrew Hoffman Culture Clash 3

Tuesday Jan 11, 2022

Today we have a special treat for you. My brother Andrew Hoffman wanted to come on the show and talk about the current state of our culture. We are going to call this segment Culture Clash: Searching for Truth in a Fractured Society. The whole premise will be to talk about things going on currently in our society. Whether it being on social media, the news, current events, etc.

On today's episode Andrew and I started off talking about how frustrated I am with all these current issues from the previous covid shutdowns. I'm personally struggling with the fact that we are almost two years removed from the start of the 2020 covid pandemic and things don't seem to be getting better. In fact they seem to be getting worse in my point of view. I feel like we should be rebuilding our society back to the original boom we were having before the shut downs. I understand it will still take years to recover from the damage caused by the responses that were administered. I just don't personally feel like we are making forward progress. We also got to talking politics and the future elections that will be upcoming this year as well as the next presidential election in a couple of years. We definitely did not have a shortness of opinions to talk about. We both had a great time. Hopefully you will enjoy it as well.

Andrew is a regular guest on the show and I can't tell you how excited I am to talk about these controversial topics with him. These are the types of conversations I look forward to having, both on and off the podcast. Society tells us today that we aren't allowed to talk about these types of topics. But these are the kinds of conversations that need to happen in a safe environment where people can be honest with how they feel about things without fear of ridicule from others. That is what we will do our best to do on this segment of the podcast.

Andrew is one of my closet friends. I consider him a brother from another mother. Andrew is always excited to record podcasts and he is one of the funniest people I know. He always has some great issues to bring up on the show that makes for great conversation. He has helped to make the show what it is today, both on and off air. He will definitely be on the show for a long time to come.

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Monday Dec 06, 2021

UH 083 - Shannon White, Ben Sina 2021 IBJJF Master‘s World Champion

Monday Dec 06, 2021

We have back with us today the True Art Jiu Jitsu boyos. We have my coach Shannon White and also Ben Sina with us today. Ben just got back from the 2021 IBJJF Master's World Championships in Las Vegas Nevada. This is the largest competition that anyone from our small gym has competed at. Ben decided to compete at Master's Worlds this year after watching a teammate compete at the IBJJF Pan American Championships a few months ago. There were 28 total brown belt super heavyweights in his division. There were definitely going to be some tough matches for him to get into the quarter finals and have a chance at getting on the podium.

Ben has been training Jiu Jitsu since 2006 and is currently a brown belt. Ben is the 2021 IBJJF Master's 1, brown belt, super heavyweight world champion. He placed second (2^nd) at the 2018 Chicago IBJJF Open and is currently 1-0 in the Fight to Win series competition. You can find Ben on Instagram @4_stripes_away.

Shannon is the head instructor of BJJ at True Art Jiu Jitsu in Fairlawn Ohio. Shannon got his black belt in Jiu Jitsu in the fall of 2018 from his instructor Mark Vives of the New Breed Training Center in Chicago Illinois. Shannon started training Jiu Jitsu in 2009 at the age of 19. He has a pedigree of competition in Jiu Jitsu and has many accomplishments on the mat. His latest accomplishment was winning the 2014 IBJJF Chicago Summer Open as a purple belt.

Shannon has a real passion for teaching and believes that Jiu Jitsu is for everyone. He is the only instructor at his gym. So he is there at every class to teach his students.

You can find him online at TrueArtBJJ.com and you can find him on Facebook at True Art Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

His personal instagram is @TheSavageBJJ

Artwork by Kathryn Kidwell

Intro music Rover by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library

Outro music Whitestick by S Strong – available on Youtube audio library